Moving to Lagos for the first time or renting your first property in 2026 can be exciting but also risky. Many newcomers lose money due to poor verification, unrealistic expectations, or pressure to pay quickly.
Here is a practical, battle-tested checklist of the 8 critical things every first-time renter in Lagos must check before paying any rent or deposit.
1. Verify the Property Title & Landlord’s Right to Rent
- Ask for a copy of the Governor’s Consent or Certificate of Occupancy (even for rent).
- Confirm the person collecting rent is the rightful owner or has a valid Power of Attorney.
- Red Flag: Landlord refuses to show title documents or pressures you to pay immediately.
2. Inspect Power & Water Supply Situation
- Ask for the last 3–6 months of electricity and water bills.
- Confirm if the estate has a working generator/solar system and how costs are shared.
- Test water pressure and ask neighbours about consistency.
- Red Flag: “We have light most of the time” without proof.
3. Understand Service Charge & Estate Rules
- Get a clear breakdown of monthly/annual service charge and what it covers.
- Ask for the estate’s rules (parking, visitors, noise, pets, etc.).
- Confirm if service charge has increased recently and by how much.
- Red Flag: Vague answers or refusal to show previous receipts.
4. Check the Landlord / Agent’s Credibility
- Speak with previous or current tenants in the same building or estate.
- Verify the agent’s registration (if possible).
- Google the landlord/agent name + complaints.
- Red Flag: Multiple people claiming to be the agent or frequent change of agents.
5. Review the Tenancy Agreement Thoroughly
- Ensure it clearly states rent amount, duration, renewal terms, and responsibilities.
- Check clauses on repairs, utility bills, and exit conditions.
- Never sign a blank or poorly written agreement.
- Tip: Have a lawyer review if the rent is above ₦2 million per year.
6. Assess Neighbourhood Safety & Traffic Reality
- Visit the property at night and early morning.
- Ask about security, flooding during rain, and actual travel time to your workplace/school.
- Walk around the area and talk to residents.
- Red Flag: Estate looks nice but surrounding area feels unsafe.
7. Confirm All Hidden Costs
- Agency fee (maximum 10%)
- Caution/Refundable deposit
- Legal agreement fee
- Painting or cleaning charges (if any)
- Generator diesel contribution (if applicable)
8. Protect Your Payment
- Never pay cash — use bank transfer with clear narration.
- Pay in stages (inspection fee → agreement → balance after keys).
- Get signed receipts for every payment.
- Use an escrow service for large amounts if possible.
Final Thoughts
Renting in Lagos in 2026 is competitive and expensive. Taking time to verify these 8 critical points can save you hundreds of thousands (or even millions) and prevent months of stress.
Never allow pressure to make you skip proper checks. A good home is worth waiting for. Do your due diligence, and you will settle into Lagos much more comfortably.
If you are currently house hunting in Lagos, which of these points has been most challenging for you? Share your experience in the comments — I’ll try to give specific advice.
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